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What is the Meaning of the Name Barbie?

Introduction

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision. It is a name that will be with them for the rest of their life, and it can have a significant impact on their identity and how they are perceived by others. One popular name that has been around for decades is Barbie. But what is the meaning of the name Barbie? In this article, we will explore the origins and significance of the name, as well as its popularity and variations.

Origins of the Name Barbie

The name Barbie is a diminutive form of the name Barbara. Barbara is a Greek name that means 'foreign woman' or 'stranger'. It was a popular name in medieval times, and it was often given to girls who were born to foreign parents or who were seen as outsiders. Over time, the name Barbara became associated with the Christian saint Barbara, who was martyred for her faith in the 3rd century. As a result, the name became popular among Christians, and it is still a common name today.

Popularity of the Name Barbie

The name Barbie first became popular in the United States in the 1950s, thanks to the introduction of the Barbie doll. The doll was created by Ruth Handler, who named it after her daughter Barbara. The Barbie doll quickly became a cultural icon, and it helped to popularize the name Barbie as a baby name. Today, the name Barbie is not as popular as it once was, but it is still a recognizable name that is often associated with beauty and femininity.

Variations of the Name Barbie

There are several variations of the name Barbie, including Barbi, Barby, and Barb. These variations are often used as nicknames or shortened versions of the name Barbara. In some cases, they may be used as standalone names. For example, the name Barbi may be used as a name in its own right, rather than as a nickname for Barbara.

Famous People Named Barbie

There are not many famous people named Barbie, but there are a few notable examples. One is Barbie Benton, an American model and actress who was popular in the 1970s. Another is Barbie Hsu, a Taiwanese actress and singer who is known for her roles in Chinese-language films and television shows. There is also Barbie Blank, an American professional wrestler and model who is best known by her ring name, Kelly Kelly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name Barbie has a rich history and meaning. It is a diminutive form of the name Barbara, which means 'foreign woman' or 'stranger'. The name first became popular in the United States in the 1950s, thanks to the introduction of the Barbie doll. Today, the name is not as popular as it once was, but it is still a recognizable name that is often associated with beauty and femininity. There are several variations of the name, and it has been used by a few notable people throughout history. If you are considering naming your child Barbie, it is important to understand the origins and significance of the name, as well as its popularity and variations.